Pays d'Avignon
Provence Web introduces you to Avignon and the surrounding region, the most beautiful villages in the area, places not to be missed and a few ideas for accommodations for your stay in the wonderful Avignon region.
Avignon, a superb Vaucluse city
Avignon, the city of the Popes, is a city rich in history and culture. Located in the south of France, it is the administrative center of the Avignon arrondissement and the prefecture of the Vaucluse département.
Its history is marked by its role as papal seat in the 14th century, earning it the nickname "City of the Popes".
The Palais des papes, a true architectural feat, is one of the city's must-see monuments.
Lovers of the arts and entertainment will be delighted by the Festival d'Avignon, created in 1946, which has made Avignon an internationally renowned city for theater and live performance.
The city also boasts an episcopal complex including Notre-Dame des Doms cathedral and the Pont d'Avignon. Finally, for nature lovers, the Île de la Barthelasse is an ideal green space for walks.
The most beautiful villages around Avignon
Around Avignon, there are several picturesque villages well worth a visit. L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, known as the treasure trove of antique dealers, is a must for art and antique lovers. But there are many other villages well worth a visit.
L'Isle sur la Sorgue: a tourist mecca
L'Isle sur la Sorgue, halfway between Avignon and Apt, is a picturesque town on the banks of the River Sorgue. It's nicknamed "Venise comtadine", thanks to its network of canals and paddlewheels, which give it a special charm.
Prized for its antique markets, which attract visitors from all over the world, the town also boasts a rich cultural and natural heritage. Here, you can discover splendid landscapes, take a canoe trip on the Sorgue river, or stroll through the historic center to admire its monuments and museums. The town also hosts numerous events throughout the year, including renowned antiques and second-hand fairs.
Pernes les Fontaines: a small town to visit
The village of Pernes les Fontaines, nicknamed the Pearl of the Comtat, is a must-see destination in the Avignon region. This small Provencal town is renowned for its forty fountains scattered between historic monuments and narrow streets with colorful facades.
The Circuit des Fontaines is particularly popular with visitors, who can discover some forty fountains in public squares, some of them listed as historic monuments.
Other attractions include the Tour Ferrande, which offers an exceptional panoramic view of the town, and the Conservatoire du Costume Comtadin, where visitors can delve into local history.
For nature lovers, Pernes les Fontaines also offers an ideal setting for exploring and discovering the beauty of the Comtat Venaissin countryside, between Mont Ventoux and the Luberon.
Finally, don't miss the Fermiers En Herbe village for a fun and educational family experience.
Entraigues sur la Sorgue
Entraigues sur la Sorgue, located in the heart of the Comtat Venaissin, is an interesting stopover for those wishing to discover the beauty of the Avignon region.
This small town steeped in history offers a variety of activities and sights to explore. Among the must-sees is the Centre Horloger de Provence, which will delight enthusiasts of precise mechanisms and watchmaking. For architecture and history buffs, the Church of Saint Pierre and the Tour des Templiers, remnants of an ancient castle, are well worth a visit. Nature lovers will enjoy the surrounding hiking trails to discover the local flora and fauna. Entraigues-sur-la-Sorgue is also within easy reach of Avignon, making it easy to discover the riches of the Palais des Papes or take a stroll on the Barthelasse island.
Les Baux de Provence: a must-see in the nearby Bouches du Rhône department
Les Baux de Provence, a village perched on a rocky outcrop, is listed as one of France's most beautiful villages. Accessible in less than an hour from Avignon, it offers exceptional panoramic views over the valley, its vineyards and olive groves.
The area is home to iconic monuments such as the Château des Baux-de-Provence and the partly troglodytic Église Saint-Vincent. Visitors can also discover the Carrières de Lumières, a unique venue where art and technology merge to offer immersive shows.
A visit to the village is also an opportunity to sample the local flavors, notably the olive oil and wines of the region. A stay in Les Baux de Provence is an invitation to a journey through the history, culture and landscapes of Provence.
What is the Avignon region called?
Provençal people call the Avignon region "le Pays d'Avignon", meaning the city of Avignon and nearby villages such as Pernes les Fontaines.
Avignon is located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, often abbreviated to PACA. It's one of France's most popular regions for its diversity of landscapes, rich cultural heritage and pleasant climate.
The region comprises six départements: Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-Maritimes, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var and Vaucluse. Avignon, located in Vaucluse, is one of the region's major cities.
The region is renowned for its cities of art and history, such as Avignon, its seaside resorts on the Côte d'Azur and its picturesque villages in Provence. It offers a wide range of activities and discoveries to suit all tastes.
What to do around Avignon
If you're interested in exploring the area around Avignon, there are many places of interest within 30 km of the city.
Orange, famous for its impressive historical heritage, is just 21 km from Avignon. Here, you can admire ancient remains such as the ancient theater of Orange, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Just 23 km from Avignon, the village of Les Baux-de-Provence offers a picturesque getaway in the heart of the Alpilles. Here you'll discover ancient traditions, charming alleyways and stunning scenery.
For an exceptional natural experience, La Source du Groseau is just a 30-minute drive from Avignon. The site, from which crystal-blue freshwater emerges, offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Don't forget to sample the local flavours during your visits, as the area around Avignon is full of delicious Provencal specialities.
Our recommendations for accommodation in Pays d'Avignon
If you're looking to spend your next vacation in the Pays d'Avignon, here's our selection of the best accommodation in the region, in our opinion.